Small union local has big hearts

ST. PAUL, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - Dec. 10, 2012) - The 12 members of CUPE 3197 who work at St. Paul's Ambulance service have decided to contribute generous donations to three local charities.

The members have decided to give $500 to the Mannawanis Native Friendship Centre Food Bank, $500 to the Pink Heart Campaign, and $500 to Haying in the 30's Cancer Support Society.

The Pink Heart Campaign collects funds for families affected by the tragic events of Oct 25, when a drunk driver crashed into the local school in St. Paul and killed Megan Wolitski and seriously injured two other students. Members of CUPE 3197 were among the first responders on the scene, and like all local residents, the event shook them deeply.

Haying in the 30's is about re-living the past using horse drawn equipment. This event has grown every year, with 100% of donations received going towards local cancer victims. Three of the Ambulance employees are currently battling cancer.

"CUPE is about more than just bargaining wages and working conditions," said CUPE Alberta President Marle Roberts. "We are about building communities. Our members in St. Paul have shown that in the best way possible by putting their efforts forward to causes near and dear to the people of their community."